New Bedford City Council debates election date change amid concerns over voter turnout

The Appointments & Briefings Committee of New Bedford convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the upcoming primary election date. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the timing and communication of changes to the election schedule, which has sparked debate among council members.

The session began with a review of the paperwork related to the election date change. A council member noted that they had not received the necessary communication from the mayor regarding this matter, raising questions about the transparency of the process. The committee then moved to refer the motion for approval of the new election date to the full city council, with a favorable recommendation.

Councilor Bergel, who initiated the motion, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the matter had already been delayed longer than necessary. He expressed confidence that the public would be informed about the new preliminary date of September 16 through various media channels. However, this assertion was met with skepticism from other council members.

Councilor Moret raised concerns about the timing of the proposal, questioning why the issue was only being addressed now, just months before the election. He highlighted the importance of consistency in election dates to ensure voter turnout and criticized the lack of advance notice regarding the change. Councilor Gomes echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the perceived haste and lack of clarity surrounding the decision.

The discussion revealed a divide among council members regarding the implications of changing the election date. Some argued that the change could confuse voters, particularly with the timing coinciding with the start of the school year. Others pointed out that the decision was made by the election commissioner, not mandated by the state, which they felt should be clarified to the public.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that many council members were seeking more information before proceeding with the approval of the new date. They emphasized the need for thorough deliberation to ensure that the decision made would be in the best interest of the voters in New Bedford.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions underscored the complexities involved in changing the election date and the importance of clear communication and transparency in the electoral process. The council plans to continue addressing these concerns as they prepare for the upcoming primary election.